Here is this week’s installment of tips and helpful links about taking care of your mental health and well-being.

Illinois Department of Human Services launched a free emotional support text line for Illinoisans experiencing stress related to COVID-19: Call4Calm. This is a source of support. If you want to speak to a counselor, text TALK to 552020, or HABLAR for Spanish speakers.

Another Hotline, The Disaster Distress Helpline, 1-800-985-5990, is a 24/7, 365-day-a-year, national hotline dedicated to providing immediate crisis counseling for people who are experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster. This toll-free, multilingual, and confidential crisis support service is available to all residents in the United States and its territories. Stress, anxiety, and other depression-like symptoms are common reactions after a disaster. Call 1-800-985-5990or text TalkWithUs to 66746 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.

Tips to Improve Sleeping During the COVID-19 Outbreak

Set your schedule and routine (wake-up and bedtime).

Reserve your bed for sleep (avoid working-from-bed and bringing a laptop into bed)..

Spend time in natural lighting (outdoors or with windows and blinds open).

Reduce screen time (phones, tablets, computers).

Avoid long naps or naps later in the day.

Stay active.

Stay in touch with friends and family while maintaining social distancing.